Conor Coady thankful to Sheffield United for loan spell

Liverpool midfielder Conor Coady has been speaking about the loan spell he had at Sheffield United last season.

Coady was sent on loan to get more experience after making his way through the ranks at Liverpool to come close to being considered for the first team, having featured in Europa League games for the Reds in the past.

The 21-year-old played a big part in the Blades getting to the FA Cup semi-final, and fighting off the threat of relegation in League One, and is thankful to the club.

He told the Liverpool Echo: “I couldn't be more grateful to Sheffield United. Everything about it was fantastic from the players to the manager, the backroom staff and the fans. It was all superb for me.

“There is a massive difference between Academy football and playing in the Football League.

“When I first went there it was a big shock. It was very quick and people were in your face.

“You realise fast how much it means to be winning games. And you learn how to win games. It means everything to players when you go down there.

“I feel like my game benefited a lot. For me as a person it was about trying to get on the ball in tight situations and Nigel Clough liked you playing."

Coady feels he has more to his game now, but the chances of him getting first team action this season are probably limited somewhat due to the fierce competition there is in central midfield for the Reds. Though if injuries strike he could be in line for a couple of appearances in the middle of the park, and a chance to show what he can do at the highest level.

If he does have the talent, there is a good chance he will given the opportunity to prove himself given the time that Brendan Rodgers has afforded to youngsters so far during his time at the club - notably Raheem Sterling and Jon Flanagan.

Coady will hoping that a similar opportunity can be afforded to him.

Ian Bolland

A journalism graduate of Liverpool John Moores University. During his time at university, Ian spent time on work experience at local newspapers in Liverpool, Bolton and Wigan, and prior to that he did work for The Observer's 'fans verdict'. Ian also has interests in news, current affairs and business but mostly sport, including football, rugby league, cricket, golf and Formula 1, amongst others.